Developing virtual public health networks: aspiration and reality

Lake, A.; Warren, J.; Copeland, A.; Rushmer, R.; Bambra, C.

Abstract

Background This paper presents the results of an exercise to scope the potential of a virtual network to support dissemination, collaboration and innovation among the UK research community on the topic of ‘work and health and well-being’. Methods Through a search of the literature and internet searches, a database of 333 individuals and 10 organizations (stakeholders) was developed to whom an online questionnaire was sent. The questionnaire scoped the potential of a virtual network on work and health and well-being. We compared respondents' aspirations for a network with the critical management literature examining the core conditions under which networks work best. Results We identified 1435 papers, published since 2008. In the UK, 333 individuals and 10 organizations were identified as working within the broad topic of Work and Health and Well-being. Of the 110 (a 34% response) responses to our online questionnaire, the majority (80%, n = 88) stated they would be interested in joining a virtual network. Conclusions Respondents indicated a willingness to engage with the network. They had a range of ideas regarding how a network could operate, which broadly match the conditions that support network effectiveness. A virtual-enabled network would be best supplemented by opportunities for face-to-face interaction.

Citation

Lake, A., Warren, J., Copeland, A., Rushmer, R., & Bambra, C. (2016). Developing virtual public health networks: aspiration and reality. Journal of Public Health, 38(4), e446-e454. https://doi.org/10.1093/pubmed/fdv172

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Nov 30, 2015
• Online Publication Date: Dec 18, 2015
• Publication Date: Dec 1, 2016
• Deposit Date: Jan 14, 2016
• Publicly Available Date: Dec 18, 2016
• Journal: Journal of Public Health
• Print ISSN: 1741-3842
• Electronic ISSN: 1741-3850
• Publisher: Oxford University Press
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• Volume: 38
• Issue: 4
• Pages: e446-e454
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1093/pubmed/fdv172